Top 5 Hikes In Pennsylvania

October 14, 2018

Pennsylvania is a beautiful state with one of the nicest scenic views and is full of wildlife. People come from all over the world to hike and play in Pennsylvania and for good reason. Trails are everywhere in this wide state and they suit everyone from the youngest hiker to the most experienced professional climber. These are the top 5 places to hike in Pennsylvania below. If you are looking for more trails, check out the best national parks.

1. Glen Onoko Falls

Glen Onoko Falls is a great family friendly hike, but you will need to be in athletic shape. The many beautiful waterfalls make this trail a worthwhile destination. Wear proper hiking shoes because you will find yourself climbing over boulders and steep hills.

This is definitely a place I would go with my children to face the many small challenges. You won’t find a shortage of obstacles to either climb or maneuver around. Please bring some band-aids because scuffs on the knees might be a possibility while having a blast with mother nature.

Glen Onoko Falls is not marked well. I would recommend a topographical map and GPS or you may find yourself getting frustrated.After a hike or two, you should know your way around this great small trail that is packed with features.

2. Mount Minsi-Appalachian Trail

Mount Minsi-Appalachian Trail will be found near the Delaware River water gap. This is a more difficult trail suited for more experienced hikers. This is a loop (stay to your left) around trail great for a workout but doesn’t offer many views beside a spectacular lookout over the Delaware River.

If you would like to beat the foot traffic started early in the day. It’s a popular hike and can be busy during the evenings and weekends.

3. Lehigh Furnace Gap-Appalachian Trail

The Lehigh Furnace Gap trail is for the skilled hiker. As you take on this trail be prepared to get right into it with a steep uphill battle for a ½ mile or so. Make sure you have your trekking poles for this trail. Getting your blood pumping while enjoying a quiet hike is not the only enjoyment. Amazing views reveal themselves as you hike through some of Pennsylvania’s amazing woods.

Getting lost is a high probability, so either take a map and know how to read it or bring a GPS. Packing food and water is a sensible option just in case the hike takes longer than you thought it would. Other trails connect to give you a longer hike but some of the paths are unmaintained so be cautious.

4. Tucquan Glen Loop Trail

If you just have a couple of hours to hike then head over to Tucquan Glen Loop Trail. This is the perfect trail for a quick hike. Not only can you bring a leashed dog but you can also bring your trail horse and take in the views.

The beauty packed into this short loop trail is amazing. Along the trail, you find waterfalls, scenic views and signs of our past. The remains of a past homestead make me imagine early life while taking in the fresh air.

Even though the trail is an easy hike, beware, the trail is full of loose rocks. Good hiking boots will help you prevent twisted ankles. A couple of short steep climbs are tossed in but nothing that young or older hikers can’t deal with. It’s a real adventure in a fairly safe atmosphere but you will be close to private properties, so please be respectful.

5. Hawk Mountain Lookout Trail

Hawk Mountain Lookout Trail is located near Kempton Pennsylvania. This is a moderate hike and not for the novice. The trail has some rougher terrain for a shorter hike. You will find yourself climbing over rocks and boulders at many points. I recommend you use pants and good hiking boots to keep from twisting ankles.

Bring some water for this heart-pumping hike. I also recommend taking a pack with basic first aid for scuffs and bruises which are a likely possibility. Don’t let these cautionary measures keep you from enjoying the stunning view from the lookout!

This trail may have a high concentration of hikers taking in all the beauty that Pennsylvania has to offer. Breathtaking views are everywhere but at a cost. Timber rattlesnakes call this place home so some common sense is needed. Stay on the trail and look before stepping or reaching over rocks and logs.